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Battersea dogs practice dribbling skills
Image: Spud, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
Reading FC have donated footballs to dogs

The four-legged residents at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home have a new hobby thanks to Reading FC.

The premier league club have donated two sacks of footballs, to keep the Battersea dogs entertained while they wait for a new home. The club also donated funds for canine toys and treats.

"It's always good to see our old equipment put to good use and it's great that the dogs can benefit from our used footballs," said Selby Armstrong, Reading FC Kit Manager.

One resident making full use of the donation is eight month old American bull dog, Spud. Ready to be rehomed, Spud had a great time testing out the balls at the Priest Hill Centre!

Kaye Mughal, manager of Battersea's Old Windsor Centre, said: "We are so grateful to Reading FC for the wonderful donation and these balls never fail to give our dogs lots of entertainment and exercise.

"We do as much as we can to keep the dog's lives as exciting as possible while they are waiting to find their perfect home, and donations like this are incredibly important to keep the dogs active and happy."

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.